Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Isolation of Human Primary Valve Cells for In vitro Disease Modeling
Published on: April 16, 2021
[Genetic aspects of valvulopathies]
F Kyndt1, S Le Scouarnec, P Jaafar
1Institut du thorax, Institut de biologie, INSERM U533, Université de Nantes et CHU Nantes.
Researchers identified the first gene linked to X-linked myxoid valvulopathy, the filamin A gene. This discovery advances understanding of familial heart valve diseases and potential treatments.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Pathology
Context:
- Myxoid degeneration causes common and serious valvular dystrophies.
- Idiopathic mitral valve prolapse (Barlow's disease) is a frequent form.
- Familial forms of valvular disease exist with known genetic loci.
Purpose:
- To identify genes responsible for myxoid valvulopathies.
- To investigate the genetic basis of familial aortic stenosis.
- To improve understanding of valvular disorder pathophysiology.
Summary:
- The filamin A gene, coding for a cytoskeleton protein, is identified as the first gene linked to X-linked myxoid valvulopathy.
- Mutations in filamin A were found in 4 out of 7 families with X-linked transmission patterns.
- Genetic epidemiology revealed likely common familial forms of aortic stenosis.
Impact:
- Facilitates a deeper understanding of valvular disorder pathophysiology.
- Opens avenues for improved therapeutic strategies for valvular diseases.
- Highlights the importance of genetic factors in common valvular pathologies.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Heart Valves
The AV valves prevent the backflow of blood from the ventricles to the atria during ventricular contraction. These valves function with the assistance of the chordae tendineae and papillary muscles. When the ventricles are relaxed, the chordae tendineae are slack, allowing blood to flow from the atria into the...
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Pulmonary Hypertension: Classification and Pathogenesis
There are various classifications for PH, each relating to different underlying causes and also...
Principles of Pharmacogenetics: Types of Genetic Variants
Pharmacogenetic Phenotypes: Alterations in Pharmacokinetics, Drug Targets and Biologic Milieu
